Wind Power.  It’s been defined as green, clean, sustainable, and even affordable.  In an effort to be more “green,” save or even generate money, and reduce waste, several companies are turning to the wind turbine.

In Indiana, Purdue University and its commercial partner Performance Services have planned and designed a  $200 million wind farm scheduled to begin generating electric power by late 2012.  Earlier this week, the University gave approval to proceed with the project, which will involve obtaining regulatory approval.  If the project is approved, the team hopes to generate 100 megawatts, which could power up to 25,000 homes.

In Canada, Greengate Power Corp. just this week  has received provincial approval from the Alberta Utilities Commission to build Canada’s largest wind farm in southern Alberta.  The project  is expected to be Canada’s largest operating wind energy project with a total generating capacity of 300 megawatts when it is completed.

Also this week, in a town outside of Boston, the local Conservation Commission has approved a wind turbine project, despite objections from the local golf club.

Closer to home, Iberdrola Renewables earlier this year filed an application with the North Carolina Utilities Commission to build what would be the state’s first commercial wind farm in Pasquotank and Perquimans counties.  If approved, the project would occupy approximately 20,000 acres of private land near Elizabeth City, and could potentially provide electricity for 55,000 to 70,000 North Carolina homes.  Construction of the structure, if approved, is slated to begin by the end of this year and could create about 400 jobs.

Share your thoughts:

What is your opinion of wind turbines? Do they make sense?  Is the return on investment worth the additional upfront costs? Do you just plain think they are ugly and not want them in your backyard, or do you see them as modern art and things of beauty?  Drop me a comment!

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Photo:  FreeFoto.com